CONTENT:
This interactive site from Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry
provides information about the ground conditions in various areas
of Chicago, useful in solving an environmental "case." Although
the site is in support of sales of soil sample kits, there's still
quite a bit to learn from going through the activities that are available
free online.
AESTHETICS:
The dark background and text color work very well together. A Java
enabled browser is needed to view the interactive map.
ORGANIZATION:
Navigation is simple via a left side menu. Individual sections have
their own embedded links for movement within the area.
REVIEW:
Tales from the Underground is a collaborative online project completed
by students in Chicago. Students from different areas took soil samples
and tested them for nitrogen, pH, and phosphorous -- key elements
in determining the health of the soil. The results were entered into
an interactive map that can be viewed online and the findings applied
to the world around them. There are three interactive activities specifically
for grades 4-6, 7-8, and 9-12 that can be used as stand-alone activities.
Students will enjoy solving the mystery of the troubled trout or preparing
for the invasion of the underground. Included is a list of additional
resources for further study. The site is selling soil sample kits,
but there is still quite a bit to be learned from engaging in the
free online activities.